Tabin Wildlife Resort is tucked away in the rainforest in Sabah, Borneo. Home to a plethora of wildlife species, it is a paradise for nature lovers. The resort offers a variety of activities, from game drives to hiking through the rainforest.
Just 20 lodges make up this intimate resort
Located in the heart of the rainforest in eastern Sabah
Spot pygmy elephants here, famous in Borneo
Each lodge has its own private balcony, perfect for watching the surrounding wildlife
Located along the Lipad River, with an abundance of wildlife and beautiful surroundings, Tabin Wildlife Resort offers a fantastic base for intrepid travellers who would still like a bit of comfort.
There are just 20 lodges, 10 of which overlook the river and 10 which sit perched on a steep hillside. Each lodge has air-conditioning and fans to keep you cool, as well as a private balcony. Each lodge also has an en-suite bathroom with hot water showers. Dining at the resort is in a large open plan canteen, and all meals are served buffet style.
It is important to bear in mind that the facilities and accommodation here are basic, but what it is lacking in style it makes up for with the wealth of wildlife and extensive nature spotting activities. The experiences at Tabin are what makes it really special. There are game drives, bird watching walks and several hikes, including one up to the nearby Lipad Mud Volcano and another to a nearby waterfall.
When to visit
Hike up to the Lipad Mud Volcano and give yourself a mud face mask - it is apparently great for the skin and the guides swear by its anti-aging properties!
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Enquire NowTabin Wildlife Reserve is located in the eastern part of Sabah, Borneo.
Tabin is a 1-hour 30-minute road transfer from the town of Lahad Datu on the east coast of Sabah. Reach Lahad Datu either by a 1-hour domestic flight from Kota Kinabalu, or by road from the Kinabatangan River or Danum Valley.
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Sepilok Nature Lodge
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Tabin - Lipad Mud Volcano
During your stay at Tabin Wildlife Reserve, visit the Lipad Mud Volcano. This active volcano provides an important mineral salt lick for the many mammals and birds in the area.
Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Sanctuary
Visit the famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Here you will have a chance to see successfully rehabilitated orangutans coming to feeding platforms, and perhaps even juvenile orangutans during one of their daily training sessions.
Sukau Rainforest Lodge - Hornbill Boardwalk
Accompanied by the lodge's in-house naturalist, take a stroll along the Hornbill Boardwalk, keeping a eye out for the wildlife that can often been seen around the property.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge - Canopy Walk
An adventure along Borneo Rainforest Lodge's canopy walk is often one of the highlights of a stay here. This suspended walkway is 300 metres long, and reaches 26 metres high at its peak, offering a different perspective into the rainforest.
Tabin - Dusk Drive
As the dusk sets in, venture out in the jeep to see if you can spot any of the reserve's daytime wildlife nesting down for the evening, or the nocturnal animals beginning to emerge to search for food and water.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge - Night Safari
Hop into the back of an open-air truck for a night safari; a great time to see nocturnal primates such as the slow loris, flying red squirrel, samba deer, and civets. Your guide will use a strong torch to search for wildlife as you bump along the track.
Kinabatangan River - Afternoon River Cruise
In the late afternoon set off by boat to explore the Kinabatangan River. Enjoy the scenery as the sun sets, watching the colours change across the sky. You may be lucky enough to spot the fireflies begin to twinkle along the riverbanks as night falls.
Tabin - Night Safari
After dinner, take an evening drive into the rainforest to try and spot some of the reserve's nocturnal wildlife. Away from the lights of the lodge, this is also a great opportunity for some stargazing.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge - “Coffin Cliff” Trek
Trek up to the “Coffin Cliff”, an ancient burial site of the Kadazandusun tribe, passing through picturesque rainforest and past waterfalls. You will also take in the best views of Danum Valley, and enjoy a refreshing dip in a natural Jacuzzi pool.
